Shrewsbury – Frank E. Groccia Jr., 91, of Shrewsbury, formerly a long-time resident of North Grafton, passed away unexpectedly at home one day short of his 92 birthday, on March 26, 2021.
Frank was born in Worcester, one of three sons of Frank E. Groccia Sr. and Rosa (Lomolino) Groccia. Raised in Worcester, Frank graduated from Commerce High School. He then joined the U.S. Navy during the Korean War serving his country proudly.
Upon discharge from the service, Frank attended Clark University, before joining his two brothers and father in the family business, Frank E. Groccia & Sons Construction. The three brothers ran and guided the company business for many years building structures all over the area before closing the company upon retirement.
In 1959, Frank met and married Genevieve M. “Jane” Nalewajko. They began their life in Worcester, moved to North Grafton, where they spent 54 years, devoted to each other and their two children, before Jane passed away in July 2018.
Frank is survived by his two children, Francine A. Karaska and her husband Mark of Groton and Frank E. Groccia III and his wife Bethanne of Worcester; three grandchildren, Emily A. Renner and her husband Alex, Rachel M. Karaska, and Kyle A. Karaska; a great-grandson, Roman; and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. In addition to Frank’s parents and wife, his two brothers, John W., and Gennaro “Gerry” Groccia, predeceased him.
In his youth, Frank was an avid skier who enjoyed many years on the slopes privately or as a member of the Worcester Ski Club. As Frank got older, he found the love of golf. He notably dove into the game. On many days when not working, Frank could be found at Green Hill with friends and relatives.
While Frank and Jane were “snowbirds” to Florida, Frank became a member of Grand Harbor Beach and Golf Country Club, enjoying the game there. Frank also liked to garden. He was a member of the Pope John Council Knights of Columbus, The UNICO Club of Worcester and the Worcester Lodge Sons of Italy.
A period of calling hours will be held Monday, March 29, from 9:30 to 11 a.m., in the Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel, 370 Plantation St., Worcester, before proceeding in procession to Our Lady of Loreto Church, 37 Massasoit Rd., where his funeral Mass will be held at 11:30 a.m. Burial will follow in St. John Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial remembrances in his name can be made to the Pope John Council K of C, care of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish, 33 Massasoit Rd., Worcester, MA 01604.
